This heart-shaped pizza is the perfect way to show love, whether for a partner or a group of friends! Topped with gooey cheese and any toppings you fancy, it’s all about fun.
Who needs flowers when you can serve up this delicious pizza? Plus, it’s so easy to make. Just shape your dough, add toppings, and share some smiles. Love is in the air… and on the plate! ❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for convenience or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free pizza dough for a delicious alternative.
Pizza Sauce: While pizza sauce is traditional, marinara sauce or even pesto can work. If you’re short on sauce, you can use a thin layer of olive oil and garlic for a different taste.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a unique flavor. Blending them all together can also elevate your pizza.
Pepperoni: If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey pepperoni or pre-cut vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can be fantastic substitutes.
Dried Oregano: Italian seasoning can replace oregano, or use fresh herbs like basil or thyme for fresh flavor that stands out.
How Do I Shape the Perfect Heart for My Pizza?
Shaping the dough into a heart can be tricky, but it’s fun! Here’s a simple way to make it easier:
- Roll out your dough to about 12-14 inches wide. Start with a round shape.
- Pinch the top of the dough to form the heart’s curves, then taper the bottom to a point for the heart’s tip.
- If the shape isn’t perfect, don’t stress! You can trim any excess dough and reshape it as needed.
- Keep your surface lightly floured to prevent sticking, and use your hands to mold the dough into place.
How to Make Heart Shaped Pepperoni Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Pizza Dough: 1 ball (about 12-14 inches diameter)
- Pizza Sauce: 1/2 cup (or marinara sauce)
- Cheese: 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Pepperoni: 20-25 slices
- Seasoning: 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Olive Oil: For brushing
- Dusting: Cornmeal or flour (for dusting the surface)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful heart-shaped pizza takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10-12 minutes to bake, making the total time approximately 30 minutes. It’s quick enough for a fun dinner or a special Valentine’s Day treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, be sure to place it in the oven to preheat it as well.
2. Roll Out the Dough:
Lightly flour or dust a clean countertop and roll out the pizza dough into a large circle about 12-14 inches in diameter. This is going to be your heart-shaped base!
3. Shape into a Heart:
To shape the rolled dough into a heart, pinch the top center of the dough to create two inward curves and taper the bottom point to form the heart shape. Don’t worry if it isn’t perfect; you can trim or adjust as necessary!
4. Transfer the Dough:
Carefully move the shaped heart dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or use a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal if you’re baking on a stone.
5. Add the Sauce:
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, making sure to leave about a 1-inch border at the edges to form the crust.
6. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Now it’s time to add the gooey goodness! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
7. Heart Shaped Pepperoni:
Using a small heart-shaped cutter or a knife, cut cute heart shapes from the pepperoni slices. Arrange these heart-shaped pieces beautifully over the cheese.
8. Season Your Pizza:
Lightly sprinkle the dried oregano or Italian seasoning over the top for some extra flavor. If you like, add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil for a lovely touch.
9. Brush with Olive Oil:
Brush a little olive oil on the exposed crust edges. This will help them turn a lovely golden-brown in the oven!
10. Bake the Pizza:
Place the pizza in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it as it cooks!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully remove the pizza from the oven. Let it cool for a couple of minutes before slicing. Serve up your charming, delicious heart-shaped pepperoni pizza and share the love!
Enjoy your tasty creation! 🍕❤️
Can I Use Store-Bought Pizza Dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough saves time and is perfect for this recipe. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out for easier handling.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
You can customize this pizza with any toppings you love! Consider adding veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives. For protein lovers, cooked sausage or grilled chicken are great additions too.
How Do I Store Leftover Pizza?
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or a skillet for a crispy crust, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before shaping it into a heart when you’re ready to bake.
